- Demonstrator
Fwip Ice Machine
Collaborative robots – The smart ice cream maker
The „Intelligent Fwip Ice Demonstrator“ training project showcases the latest technological standards in the field of intelligent automation and robot collaboration. The task was to develop a „Portobello“, the IoT ice cream machine with a capsule system from Fwip, to fit them with new motors and sensors and to enable intelligent operation using a „Sawyer“ robot from Rethink Robotics. Two working students were involved in the project; in addition to the engineering work, they were also able to gain practical experience in project management and 3D printing.
The automatically controlled robot uses a gripper to pick up an empty ice-cream bowl and place it beneath the machine’s dispensing point. It then uses a vacuum gripper to retrieve the required ice cream cartridge from the cooling unit and places it into the Fwip ice cream machine. The machine then prepares the ice cream. In the final step, the robot arm retrieves the prepared ice cream cup and serves the ice cream to the user at the dispensing point. The entire ice cream preparation process is made visible to onlookers with the aid of Neopixels.
Highlights
Video
Tools and technologies used
FAQ
What does the „Intelligent Fwip Ice Demonstrator“ demonstrate?
The demonstrator illustrates how a robotic arm can automatically operate an IoT ice cream machine – including loading, ice cream preparation and dispensing to the user – using state-of-the-art sensor and motor technology.
What technologies are being used in the project?
The system utilises a Sawyer robot from Rethink Robotics, Neopixels for visualising the processes, motors and sensors for the ice cream machine, as well as vacuum grippers and a gripper hand for handling the ice cream tubs.
What learning objectives does the project offer to those involved?
Working students and participants gain practical experience in engineering, robotics, 3D printing and project management, whilst gaining hands-on experience of integrating IoT devices into automated processes.
How is the process made visible to the audience?
The entire ice-making process is visualised using Neopixels, allowing spectators to follow the robot’s movements in real time.
Can the solution be applied to other automation processes?
Yes, the principles of robot control, sensor integration and process visualisation can be applied to other intelligent automation and service processes.